The Village of Elmwood Park is in search of a strategic Finance Director to join its executive leadership team with the ability to drive sustainable budgeting and long-term financial planning. This is an appointed position and reports to the Village Manager.

Elmwood Park offers a welcoming, close-knit community atmosphere with the convenience of being just minutes from downtown Chicago. The village boasts well-maintained parks, vibrant local businesses, and a strong commitment to public safety and community services. With excellent schools, diverse dining options, and a calendar full of community events, Elmwood Park provides a high quality of life for families and individuals alike. Ongoing investments in infrastructure and amenities, like new recreational facilities and beautification projects, reflect the village’s dedication to continuous improvement and quality of life for residents.

As outlined in the Elmwood Village Operating Budget 2024-2025, the total general fund budget was $26.6M. The Village is managing its finances prudently and is positioned to maintain or improve its financial position. A budget hearing on April 11, 2025, was held to discuss the FY2025–2026 budget. Some key indicators from the hearing include:
• Revenues have consistently outpaced expenses, which is a strong sign of fiscal health.
• The village has diversified revenue streams, including gaming, cannabis, and ambulance fees, which help buffer against economic fluctuations.
• Interest income from the budget stabilization account was $191,000, indicating healthy reserves.
• Police and local fines exceeded expectations, contributing to higher-than-anticipated revenue.
• The village is investing in infrastructure and community amenities, such as new pickleball courts funded by a state grant.
• While some departments went over budget, this was attributed to increased activity and project costs rather than mismanagement.

Additional financial information
Annual Comprehensive Financial Report 2023 (Audit)

Key Responsibilities:
- Establish and enforce financial policies, procedures, and internal controls to safeguard assets and ensure fiscal sustainability.
- Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive Capital Improvement Plan.
- Identify and implement system enhancements, including evaluation of financial, payroll, and timekeeping software solutions.
- Oversee the annual audit process, including preparation of audit and coordination of the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.
- Support investment and cash management strategies to ensure liquidity, capital preservation, and optimal returns.
- Provide financial analysis and insights to inform executive decision-making.
- Drive operational efficiency and compliance through process evaluation and implementation of best practices in budgeting, accounting, procurement, and reporting.
- Administer financial operations for multiple TIF and Business Districts and support economic development through revenue forecasting and feasibility analysis.
- Analyze utility revenues and expenditures to maintain a sustainable and equitable water and sewer rate structure.
- Other duties as assigned.

A full job description can be found here.

Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, business or public administration, or directly related field.
- A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in financial administration, preferably within a governmental or public sector setting
- Relevant experience in local government may substitute for educational requirements.
- Demonstrated expertise in governmental accounting, budgeting, and financial reporting, with a strong track record in audit, organizational change management, and cultivating a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree.
- Experience in grants management and economic development financing (TIF) structures.
- CPFO or CPA certification.

Other Important Information
- The hiring range is $130,000 to $155,000 depending on specific qualifications.
- The Village provides a rich and competitive benefit package that includes:
o Health, Dental, and Life
o Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) and/or 457 Deferred Compensation Plan
o Paid Time Off - Vacation, sick leave, and holiday time, allowing employees to balance work and personal life.
o Residency in Elmwood Park is not required for this position.
- For consideration, please complete Village Employment Application.